Welcome Em Petrova!

Foray into F/F

By Em Petrova

When I begin writing a story, I conjure my characters first. Usually they’ve been screaming at me to bring them to life for awhile, so by the time I put them onto paper, they’re completely 3D, with passions, past failures, quirks and pet peeves. And they’ve already told me long ago who they love. I don’t choose for them. Which means I write across the genres. From M/M, F/F, M/F and all kinds of ménage in between—I’ve written them all.

I happen to write F/F pretty often. There’s just something about two female characters seeing one another and getting that spark. Maybe they’ve come to terms with this sensual side of themselves. Maybe not. They’ll still argue and battle the odds to come together, but when they do so, you’d better believe it’s with smoldering passion.

In the past couple months I’ve seen an upsurge in f/f readers. It’s a genre men usually get aroused by (lots of fantasies involved there), but women are sometimes leery of reading about lovers with a complete set of X chromosomes. The media throws pictures of hot women together for the titillation of male genes, and often women feel exploited by this. We don’t want to feel our attractions might be for a man to get off on. But F/F writers plot stories with something completely different in mind—sensuality and emotion.

Another reason women might be hesitant to pick up a book with two heroines is they don’t think they can identify with the characters. These characters are mothers, sisters, aunts, BFF’s and even wives. For me, reading about other women always gives insight into my own life, whether it’s a funny line that helps me lighten up or a more provocative scenario that makes me analyze my actions. Through books, I meet new people and make friends.

Some readers may be afraid of getting turned on by what they’ve read. They might not feel ready to explore that secret desire or sail into uncharted territory. Telling your friend about the scorching scene in the hetero story you’re reading is easier than relating one about two women. But think about this: maybe your friend is reading the same book and is worried about ‘fessing up too.

The important idea to remember here is that most erotic romance isn’t about reality, but fantasy all the way. It’s about exploring your sexuality and maybe finding something turns you on more than you’d ever imagined, whether it’s being turned over a powerful man’s knee and having your bare ass beaten or diving between some curvaceous thighs. I personally love strong male bodies and the tools they use for work. But I’ve always found the female body beautiful, from the flare of hips to fluttering lashes. Most women can truly appreciate a stunning woman’s appearance, maybe in ways men don’t. After all, we know the work that goes into our bodie. Kickboxing for that tight ass, battling the baby tummy, exfoliating, waxing, and long hours spent in the salon.

Like other genres of erotic romance, the stories aren’t about the sex. The sex enhances the relationship—the icing on the cake. In the case of M/M, the hunky cake. And with F/F it’s decadent pie.

With the recent release of one of my F/F stories, DEUX-Book One of The French Kiss Chronicles, one of my beloved readers sent me a message, letting me know she loves my work but didn’t know if this one was for her. She wanted to try it, but was hesitant. I related much of what I have here to you. My reader took the challenge and later let me know how much she enjoyed the book.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on this topic. Have you ever read a book with same sex lovers, whether it’s two hot studs or two luscious babes? Would you try one?

Released Today, May 13:

Trois-Book Two of The French Kiss Chronicles

When Jane's husband Ethan discovers his wife has been dipping into the honey jar, he demands a taste of the decadent pleasure. But Jane's new lover Margot is newly divorced and shies from the idea of being with another man. Frustrated, but willing to be patient, Ethan is allowed to watch his wife experience mind-blowing pleasure, vowing that soon he will have Margot in his arms.

However, there is more to Margot's hesitation than entering a relationship with a married couple. Her ex is pressuring her—leaving her leery of men and afraid of dragging Jane and Ethan into it. While battling her attraction for Ethan, she shoots down Jane's request to make their relationship a true threesome.

Can Ethan help Margot overcome her fear of him and gain her trust, as well as put a stop to her ex's harassment?

Buy Link for Trois: http://www.empetrova.com

Deux-Book 1 of The French Kiss Chronicles Buy Link: http://tiny.cc/mya0b